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Month: November 2011

Is it just me? Lately there seems to be so much tragedy. There is the big stuff with the weather but then there are the things that happen on a smaller scale: fatal car accidents, suicides, a deadly cancer returning, a fall down the steps that leaves someone in a coma.

How do we cope with these kinds of things?

My fear of facing the death of the ones I love ebbs and flows. My dad died when I was six so death has been a part of my earliest memories. Sometimes I fear the earthly separation that death brings. I find it challenging to balance the intense love I have for people with the knowledge that one day, I will probably be living without them.

As I considered the pain and failing body my mom was dealing with as well as knowing her faith, I felt selfish wanting to keep her here when she could be whole and with Jesus. It was important for me to release her from this earth and keep Heaven on my mind at the same time.

What early experiences have you had with death that have shaped your approach today? Is there fear? Is there pain? Is there hurt? Is there anticipation? I always have to remind myself of God’s perspective on death. We will all meet our Maker one day. Pray for those you know who are struggling with disease and decay. Offer to assist them in some way. Pray for their peaceful release. And pray for their families too.

12 oz bag of fresh cranberries, chopped (Pampered Chef chopper is the way to go here)

½ or so of a green pepper, chopped

4-5 green onion, chopped

8 oz can crushed pineapple, drain juice

6-8 branches cilantro, chopped

¼-1/2 cup sugar

¼-1/2 teaspoon salt

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 box of Wheat Thin Crackers (we use a generic reduced fat one)

Mix together everything but the cream cheese. Give flavors a little time to blend (at least one hour). This keeps for several days in the refrigerator. Doubles well.

Spread the softened cream cheese on a plate or platter and dump the rest on top. Use Wheat Thins or other solid cracker (or tortilla chip for the gluten impaired) so you can scoop up the cream cheese with the dip.

Cook’s Note: This dip has a beautiful presentation and sounds really gross but it is simply AMAZING. A party for your mouth AND super good for you too!!!!!